Hope you’ve had enough time to recover from GeekGirlCon ‘16, because it’s official—GeekGirlCon ‘17 is coming!

On September 30 and October 1, 2017, join us at the Conference Center at the Washington State Convention Center for another two days of geeky goodness. We’ll have everything from cosplay and panels to exhibitors and musical guests. We can’t wait to see you!

I’m not alone when I say I’ve had a hard few weeks. Things have felt slightly broken, shook askew, tilted into fantasy mayhem. I’m trying to take the long view, trying to steel myself for a fight, but sometimes some of the best uses of our time is taking a step back and looking through different eyes.

I’m a big reader, so in the days since the election I’ve been trying to understand things through fiction. So here’s a small list of inspiring and thought-provoking books I’ve been dwelling on.

Six years ago, GeekGirlCon was founded on the belief that anyone can be a geek and that geek spaces can and should be inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to all. Our convention—which this year had over 11,000 attendees—seeks to teach, appreciate, and inspire geeks from all walks of life. We celebrate diversity because we each have unique experiences that are worth sharing. When we say “Every Geek, Everybody,” we absolutely mean it.

GeekGirlCon is still here. We will continue to work toward a better future for women in STEAM fields, games, comics, and more. We will keep carving out and embracing spaces for us to do what we love. Because we believe that everybody deserves a place where they can fearlessly and fiercely be themselves.

If you would like to back our efforts, you can donate to or volunteer with GeekGirlCon. You can also show your support for some of our partner organizations. Or, if you are currently unable to donate or volunteer, there is still a lot that you can do. Learn. Love. Grow. Share. Make time for self-care–your feelings are valid. Inspire others with your optimism. Continue to be kind, empathetic, and compassionate to each other.

We’re here for you and invite you to connect with us at copy@geekgirlcon.com. Early next week, we’ll be posting some of your thoughts. What are you doing to foster community? Who are some women in STEAM you would love to see blog posts about here? What media are you turning to for inspiration right now (this letter from Leslie Knope is helping me immensely)? Share your favorite quote about empowerment. Community and conversation are key at this juncture, and we’re happy to help foster them in every way that we can.

Thank you for being part of our community and allowing us to be part of yours.

There was plenty to do at GeekGirlCon ‘16–browse the expanded exhibitor’s hall, attend the numerous amazing panels, and socialize at meet-ups. But my favorite activity on each day was Crafting with Feminism, aka meeting up with a few dozen other attendees and Bonnie Burton to create superheroine wrist cuffs and tampon buddies.

In just a few days, at GeekGirlCon ‘16, you’ll get the chance not only to listen to our amazing featured contributors and the rest of our panelists share their experiences, opinions, and stories during the panels and events but also to have a private moment with them at the signing tables on Floor 3 of the Conference Center.

Stash away some of those pennies, nickels, and dimes because GeekGirlCon ‘16 is coming up and you’ll want to walk away with some awesome swag! Not only do we have more exhibitors than ever this year, but GeekGirlCon’s branded merch is, quite possibly, even better than ever.

This year at GeekGirlCon, get ready to demo the best new indie games coming out of the Seattle area. Seattle is already a great area for games, and the local indie game community is even better. When you demo an indie game at a con, chances are you’re playing right alongside an actual developer or designer for the game, so you’re sure to have an amazing, organic and meaningful interaction. The teams behind the games GeekGirlCon is highlighting this year are passionate about gaming and sharing their creations with you!

GeekGirlCon ‘16 can’t stop and won’t stop with the extra surprises and events for you, our favorite attendees. This time, we’re rolling out everyone’s favorite way to connect at a con: Fan Meetups!

For specific, glorious hours throughout the con, fans of different series, movies, books, and more can now easily meet other aficionados, hang out, and make some new friends. Fan meetups are con-organized events that are specifically organized to help you meet other people who are just like you. Go ahead and meetup!

There’s a lot to do to prepare for a con, from buying passes to making sure you have comfortable shoes. One thing you can check off your list now is getting all that information together, because I’ve got your back!

Have you heard all about it yet? GeekGirlCon 2016 is coming up fast, faster than you might have known—63 days, which is just 9 weeks, which is just 63 days! Wait, my argument is getting a little circular there. Let’s avoid that. Instead, just—get your passes!

GeekGirlCon is filled with fantastic cosplay, handpicked exhibitors and panels, a bustling game room, and more. We do our utmost best to make GeekGirlCon enjoyable and welcoming to all, so we have offerings like quiet spaces, family-friendly panels, and even early admission for those with accessibility issues. It’s a party, and not only is everyone invited, but we want to make sure everyone has a great time.